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Oh, how I love to visit Grand Marais in the summer! After visiting the area a few times a year for nearly twenty years, this Minnesota city has captured our hearts. It’s one of our favorite places to go – and for good reason! Not only is the area beautiful, offering plenty of places to hike, canoe, and explore, but I’m very lucky to say that my in-laws live there. If you are planning a trip to Grand Marais with kids this summer, you have so much to look forward to. And, I have everything you need to know about planning a summer itinerary for Grand Marais with kids in this family-friendly guide.
Grand Marais in the summer is truly magical! The summer temperatures are mild, the views of Lake Superior are unparalleled, and the food scene is top-notch. There is a lot to love about this charming Minnesota town. If you are looking for fun things to do in Grand Marais this summer to plan your long weekend (or week-long) itinerary with kids, I’ve got you covered with everything from hikes and sailing to alpine slides, and more. Not to mention, Grand Marais hotels and restaurants that are perfect for families with kids of all ages. Keep reading to discover a few of my favorite summer adventures for families in Grand Marais.
Tips + Packing List for Grand Marais this Summer
Before diving into my Grand Marais itinerary, you should know a few things about visiting during the summer months. Here are a few tips to ensure a successful summer trip with kids to Grand Marais.
Weather
Grand Marais is pretty far north (only 45 minutes from the Canadian border). As such, the weather in Grand Marais is generally cooler than in the Twin Cities metro, or other parts of the United States. Even in the heart of the summer, you should expect mild temperatures near Lake Superior. Remember that sweatshirts are the most common summer souvenir in Grand Marais!
Here is the monthly average high/low temperature (in Fahrenheit) for Grand Marais during the summer months (May – September). However, it’s important to note that temps can vary widely depending on where in Grand Marais you are. For example, it is always cooler near the lake than up the Gunflint Trail. Don’t let the summer averages fool you, either. While the area by the lake can remain cooler, it can reach 100° up the Gunflint Trail (and even in town sometimes).
- May 56° / 38°
- June 63° / 44°
- July 71° / 52°
- August 71° / 54°
- September 63° / 47°
Packing
Your exact packing list will depend on the things you want to pack into your summer itinerary for Grand Marais with kids. To get you started, though, here are a few things I know you will need (in addition to the items you usually pack for a family trip):
- Layers: Weather can change often and quickly on the North Shore. No matter what season you visit, pack layers. It can be cooler down by the lake than in other parts of the area, so be prepared.
- Rainboots for kids who want to walk into Lake Superior, which is cold year-round. While you may see some kids “swimming”, the water isn’t very warm.
- Swimming suits and life jackets for pools and inland lakes.
- Hiking Gear if you plan to hit the trails (which you should!). Depending on your preference and the trail, you may also want to consider bringing hiking poles.
- Water bottles or hydration packs for hiking.
- Seasonal protective items like sunscreen, sunglasses, bug spray, etc.
- Books + games! Don’t forget you’re on vacation – have some fun games and books available for downtime.
- Not sure what else you’ll need? Ask me! Or, reach out to your accommodations; they will have great ideas, too (not to mention, know what they have on-site for you already).
Find More of Our Favorite Travel Items for Families Here:
Day 1 in Grand Marais with Kids this Summer
Once you arrive in Grand Marais, get settled at your accommodations. There are plenty of hotels in (and near!) Grand Marais to choose from for families, as well as several Vrbo and Airbnb properties. I’ve shared a few of my favorites below. Though, admittedly, because my in-laws live in Grand Marais, we haven’t stayed in many of them.
After you’re settled, it’s time to start enjoying the sights and sounds of Grand Marais! Your Grand Marais summer itinerary starts here. I recommend heading downtown to get a lay of the land and check out Harbor Beach. Here, kids can toss rocks in the water or dip their toes in. Though, remember, the water will still be pretty chilly! Your first night in town is a great time to walk out to Artists’ Point and the Grand Marais Lighthouse, too. If you need even more ideas to fill your first day, I’ve included several more things to do in Grand Marais with kids this summer below!
Then, end your first night with dinner at My Sister’s Place. This is my daughter’s favorite restaurant in Grand Marais. She adores their lemon arugula pizza. Meanwhile, I love their Reuben – it’s delicious! Their extensive menu is sure to please everyone in the family! Plus, they have a lovely outdoor patio and game area in the summer. Finally, they also offer great take-out options if you don’t want to dine in.
READ NEXT: Foodie Family Approved: 16+ Best Restaurants in Grand Marais with Kids
Day 2 in Grand Marais with Kids this Summer
Day two in Grand Marais starts with donuts from the World’s Best Donuts and coffee from Java Moose Espresso Cafe. Both iconic eateries are located in downtown Grand Marais and are very popular (they are about two blocks apart). Expect a line at both. In fact, you may want to split up and send someone to Java Moose, while the other waits in line at World’s Best Donuts.
Java Moose has an excellent coffee menu (I wholeheartedly recommend the maple latte!). If you don’t want to pair coffee with donuts, Java Moose also has a collection of scones and muffins for breakfast (and sandwiches for lunch). Only Java Moose has a bathroom if anyone needs one in the morning.
Meanwhile, at World’s Best Donuts, be sure to get the donut kabobs for the kids! These whimsical treats are one of the best ways to start the day in Grand Marais. After you have your morning treats, head to Harbor Beach. Neither establishment has great summer seating, so a morning picnic on the beach is the best option. Harbor Beach has a few benches and picnic tables, but you may want to bring a blanket along if you plan to sit directly on the beach.
This is one of my favorite ways to spend the morning in Grand Marais – and it’s a must on any summer itinerary for Grand Marais with kids! You won’t be disappointed…unless a lucky gull gets a donut or two (watch out for them!).
READ NEXT: A Family Guide to the 8 State Parks on the North Shore of Minnesota
Hike Cascade River State Park
After breakfast, head to Cascade River State Park. The trailhead is only 12 minutes from downtown Grand Marais. This is a great place to introduce kids to hiking on the North Shore. Additionally, the closest (and easiest) waterfall to reach near Grand Marais is at Cascade River State Park. In fact, if you don’t want much of a hike and only want to see the falls, it’s only about a 5-minute walk to reach it from the parking lot. Parking is available along Hwy 61 near the trailhead. Undoubtedly, it’s an excellent option for all ages for a low-effort, high-impact hike.
For a bit more of a trek, head past the falls and go to the left. Take the stairs up, and the trail along until you reach the bridge that crosses the river. This will make a loop back to the parking lot. Be sure to find the sign that explains why the falls look like Root Beer!
Alternatively, take the Lookout Mountain Loop if you’re up for a more epic trek. Along this route, you can enjoy the falls along the Cascade River and get an outstanding view of Lake Superior at the top. This is a moderate, 3.2-mile loop trail.
After your hike, (safely) cross Hwy 61 to see where the river meets Lake Superior. Follow the parking area and stone wall to the left. Here, you’ll find a staircase. Take the stairs down to a few large rocks jutting out of the lake. It’s a great spot to see the waters converge, and get an unobstructed view of Lake Superior. Depending on the water level, it’s an excellent place for kids to toss rocks in the lake, too. In my opinion, this hike is a must on any summer itinerary for Grand Marais with kids.
Explore Downtown Grand Marais
After you return to town from your hike, it’s a great time to rest back at your hotel or continue your exploration of downtown. If you still have the stamina to hike along and explore, head out to Grand Marais Lighthouse. Take the break wall out to the lighthouse. If the water is calm and low, you can also explore some “tide pools” and rocks along the water. Kids will love looking for tiny fish in the pools.
Here are my favorite local shops in downtown Grand Marais to peek into:
- Roam & Whimsy Co. (one of the newest + cutest shops in town!)
- The Big Lake Life (I rarely leave town without stopping here!)
- Upstate MN
- Drury Lane Books
- Sivertson Gallery
- Stone Harbor Wilderness Supply
- Beth’s Fudge & Gifts
- Lake Superior Trading Post
- Joy & Company
If you are traveling with littles, Drury Lane Books offers a fun Summer Children’s Story Hour on Saturday mornings. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, on Saturdays at 11:00 am, The Muffin Man regales kids and their families with his favorite picture books and jokes. The storytime takes place outside between Drury Lane Books and the beach. It is one of the best story hours we’ve ever been to!
Putt n Pets Mini Golf
If you’ve already had your fill of the lighthouse and harbor, head away from downtown to check out Putt n Pets Mini Golf. This whimsical 18-hole course is perfect for a warm summer day in Grand Marais. The course is open from mid-May through October. It’s a great addition to any Grand Marais summer itinerary.
Grab your putter and ball and tee off at the first green. As you meander around the course, watch out for furry and feathered friends along the way! Kids can see goats, turkeys, peacocks, and more critters while they putt on the course. Lastly, Putt n Pets Mini Golf has ice cream on-site – it’s a great way to treat the winner!
Dinner + Sunset on Night 2
Whether you have spent the afternoon shopping, playing mini golf, or resting (or a mix of all three!), dinner is at The Fisherman’s Daughter. My husband craves their salmon chowder year-round – it’s heavenly and a must-try! They also offer family favorites like fish and chips, fish tacos, and chicken strips. Not to mention, a rotating menu of delicious specials. I usually alternate between the fish and chips or the fish tacos. The Fisherman’s Daughter offers both indoor and outdoor seating in the summer, plus they have a charming gift and eats area in the center of the shop, too!
Finally, when you visit Grand Marais in the summer, you must enjoy at least one sunset at the Grand Marais Lighthouse. The sunsets here are UNREAL! So, after dinner, walk along the harbor to the beach (or all the way out to the lighthouse). Arrive about 20-30 minutes before sunset and simply enjoy.
Alternative Activity for Day 2: Sail Aboard the Hjørdis
Looking to add a little adventure to your summer itinerary for Grand Marais with kids? Book a tour with Grand Marais’s flagship: the Hjørdis. Climb aboard and tour the Grand Marais harbor as her iconic purple sails flutter in the wind! It’s a great way to get a unique perspective of Grand Marais in the summer.
Operated through North House Folk School, this sailing tour is open to all ages. The schooner holds up to 6 guests per sail, plus the staff. The summer sailing season is from late May to early October.
Departing from the docks at North House Folk School, the tour lasts about 1 hour and 45 minutes. They even offer sunrise and sunset tours available. During the tour, your captain will share stories and a bit about the area’s history. As one of the best things to do in Grand Marais this summer, you will be treated to EPIC views of the downtown Grand Marais, Lake Superior, and the Sawtooth Mountains while aboard the historic schooner!
Be sure to dress warmly for your voyage. Even in the summer, it can be chilly on the water. You can also bring your own snacks and drinks aboard. Finally, if you want, you can also bring your own life jackets for kids (especially if you have kids who prefer their familiar life jackets), but life jackets are also provided for everyone.
Day 3 in Grand Marais with Kids this Summer
Today begins with a yummy breakfast at Coho Cafe & Bakery. Located in Tofte, this eatery is a great place to kick off day three of your summer itinerary for Grand Marais with kids. Coho Cafe offers an extensive menu of American classics for breakfast, about 30 minutes from downtown Grand Marais (and on the way to your next destination). Breakfast items include breakfast burritos, pancakes, omelettes, pastries, and more. They also offer a dedicated kids’ menu for toddlers and young kids.
Alternatively, if you want breakfast closer to Grand Marais before embarking on the day’s adventures, Cascade Lodge Restaurant & Pub is just minutes from downtown and offers a lovely breakfast. The breakfast menu here includes corned beef hash, eggs benedict, breakfast sandwiches, and more. Finally, Cascade Lodge Restaurant & Pub also provides a dedicated kids’ menu.
Alpine Slide at Lutsen Mountains + Lunch
If you are looking for adventurous things to do in Grand Marais this summer with your kids, the alpine slide at Lutsen Mountains is a must for your itinerary! The slide’s thrilling twists and turns down the mountain, will be a treat for kids and adults alike.
Getting to the top of the alpine slide chute is half the fun! Once you arrive, you will check in at the kiosk, then grab your sled and take a ski lift up the mountain to reach the start of the twin alpine slides. The views from the lift are outstanding! Once you reach the top, carry your sled to the beginning of the track and get on. Wait for the light to turn green…and GOOOOO! The two tracks are parallel with one another, which means families can race down the snakelike tracks. If you’re a bit worried about the experience, know that riders can manually slow down or brake based on personal comfort (or desire for speed!).
Families can purchase tickets for one ride or an unlimited day pass. We only bought a single ride during our first visit—looking back, I think this was a mistake. Learn from us; you’ll want to go down more than once (or at least your kids will)! I think it’s worth it to get the unlimited day pass.
Afterward, add a ride on the gondola for more great views. Once you reach the top, you can also enjoy an on-mountain restaurant and hiking trails with excellent views. Have lunch atop the mountain at Summit Chalet. Regardless of how you spend the day at Lutsen Mountains, it’s a fun addition to any summer itinerary for Grand Marais with kids.
End the Day with Dinner + Games
After an exciting day in Lutsen, make sure you take time to rest in the afternoon. Then, when you’re ready for dinner, go to Voyageur Brewing Company! Located in downtown Grand Marais, this is one of my favorite restaurants in Grand Marais! And, it is a must-eat for us whenever we are in town.
With a large outdoor patio, rooftop bar, and indoor dining room, there is plenty of seating to choose from. The patio is our favorite spot in the summer! Time it right, and you can even catch the sunset from Voyageur Brewing Company. Then, pack along a card game or two. Lazy evenings eating and playing games here is the perfect way to end day three on this Grand Marais summer itinerary.
When you’re ready to order, the menu features many outstanding appetizers and small plates, including Reuben eggrolls (a must!), flatbread pizza, soft pretzels with cheese, and much more. They also have a yummy kids’ menu for toddlers and young kids. After a full day of exploring some of the best things to do near Grand Marais with kids, it’s undoubtedly a great place to end the day.
Day 4 in Grand Marais with Kids this Summer
Begin your final morning at Blue Water Cafe or SHOOK, a food truck in downtown Grand Marais (across from Voyageur Brewing Company). Both offer yummy eats for all ages. Blue Water Cafe is a traditional diner with a fantastic breakfast menu. Though, it’s hard to beat the tropical smoothie bowls from SHOOK on a hot summer morning in Grand Marais. Either way, you’ll be well-fueled to start the final day of your itinerary for Grand Marais this summer with kids.
Visit the Heritage Center at Grand Portage National Monument
On your final day, head out of town along Hwy 61 toward Grand Portage. About 40 minutes from downtown, the Grand Portage National Monument Heritage Center is an excellent stop with kids. The Center is dedicated to sharing the history and stories of the local Anishinaabe (Ojibwe) tribe and culture, as well as the historic fur trade route that ran through this area.
Upon arrival, head inside to check out the interactive exhibits within the Center. There are several exhibits exploring the history of the Anishinaabe peoples and culture and the impact of the fur trade. There is also a great film as part of the exhibits that describes local history further. Then, because it’s a national monument area, kids can also do the Junior Ranger program! Outside, meander through the Depot, a critical trading post for the North West Company. Once you pass through the palisade gates, you will travel back in time to the days of the fur trade. During our visits, we always learn so much together. In my opinion, it’s a must-stop for anyone traveling to the North Shore this summer.
Afterward, add a trek up Mount Rose (an easy, 1.2-mile loop trail) to your itinerary. There are two trailheads (one opposite the parking lot, and one a short walk down from the Heritage Center). Take the trailhead past the Heritage Center for a shorter hike. The trail offers multiple picturesque views of Lake Superior. You can even see Mount Josephine and Isle Royale on a clear day! Note, however, that the trail can be very steep in some areas and includes some rustic stairs.
Alternative Hike: Grand Portage State Park
If you don’t want to hike Mount Rose, Grand Portage State Park offers a beautiful hike that is accessible for everyone (including strollers). Only a few minutes from the Heritage Center at Grand Portage National Monument, it’s one of my favorite hikes in Minnesota.
In fact, the paved/boardwalk trek along the High Falls Trail leads to Minnesota’s tallest waterfall! This 1.1-mile out-and-back hike is an exciting option for those who love waterfalls. At the end of the trail, there are stairs to reach the two viewing platforms. The views from the top are incredible! This river is also the border between the United States and Canada. Afterward, head into the visitor center to explore the small collection of exhibits on Ojibwe and Voyageur history. Finally, there are also clean, indoor bathrooms here.
Dinner in Grand Marais
Enjoy your last night in Grand Marais with a casual dinner at Hungry Hippie Tacos. Dine in or take out; Hungry Hippie Tacos is an excellent spot for dinner – especially if you’re craving tacos. I love their puffy tacos (fry bread-inspired tacos). The ingredients are always fresh and their meats and sauces are all house-made. The tacos are absolutely delicious (if you’re wondering, the Northern Gringo is my favorite taco on the menu)! After dinner, walk over to Superior Creamery for some of the best ice cream in town.
If you’d rather celebrate the end of your trip to Grand Marais with kids with a more upscale dinner, Angry Trout Cafe is a great option. Due to its beautiful dining room with incredible lakeside views and dynamite food, the Angry Trout Cafe is one of the best restaurants in Grand Marais. They even offer waterfront outdoor seating! The delicious menu highlights locally grown produce, hand-harvested wild rice, and, of course, fresh-caught Lake Superior fish.
More Things to Do in Grand Marais this Summer with Kids
The above itinerary is only an example of the many things you can do with kids in Grand Marais this summer. If you are looking for more ideas, consider adding one or two of these fun things to do to your summer itinerary for Grand Marais:
- Additional kid-friendly hiking options in the area include Oberg Mountain Trail, Temperance River State Park, and Judge C.R. Magney State Park.
- Head up the Gunflint Trail! There are plenty of things to do along the Gunflint Trail, including Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center and great hikes like Magnetic Rock Trail, Honeymoon Bluff, and Moose Viewing Trail.
- Rent a canoe from Rockwood Lodge and Outfitters to explore Poplar Lake (located on the Gunflint Trail).
- Learn more about local maritime history at the Cook County History Museum.
- Adults and older kids can pack in some self-care at Sisu and Löyly, a lakeside sauna experience for ages 10+.
- Sugarloaf Cove Nature Center in Shroeder features interactive stations, naturalists who can answer questions, and a kid-friendly hiking trail.
- North Shore Adventure Park is an exciting park in Silver Bay, about an hour south of Grand Marais. It features zip Lines and ropes courses.
Learn more by reading my Family Guide to 14+ Exciting Summer Things to Do in Grand Marais with Kids!
Where to Stay near Grand Marais with Kids this Summer
Now that you know how to plan your summer itinerary for Grand Marais with kids, here are my favorite recommendations for Grand Marais hotels! Firstly, we adore Thomsonite Inn for its quiet, but excellent, location. Just outside downtown Grand Marais, it offers fantastic lake views, recently renovated rooms (some with kitchens), a family-friendly sauna (no age restrictions), and more!
Then, Bluefin Bay on Lake Superior is an excellent option nestled along Lake Superior in nearby Tofte. It has one of the best selection of accommodations in the area (including spacious townhouse options) and incredible views of the lake! They also offer an on-site pool, spa, restaurants, and more.
Alternatively, families also enjoy staying at East Bay Suites, Gunflint Lodge & Outfitters, and Skyport Lodge & Raven Rock Grill. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, consider booking a room at Best Western Plus Superior Inn. Regardless of which of these Grand Marais hotels you choose, you’ll have tons of fantastic summer activities nearby!
Keep Exploring Grand Marias with Kids!
I hope you found this summer itinerary for Grand Marais with kids helpful in planning your own adventures! From stunning views of Lake Superior to kid-friendly trails and inviting locals, Grand Marais is genuinely a wonderful place to explore with kids this summer. This guide features everything you need to know about planning an outstanding family trip to the North Shore, from exploring the best things to do in Grand Marais to kid-friendly places to eat to the best Grand Marais hotels for families. Have in Grand Marais with your kids this summer!
Unless otherwise noted, all images in this article were taken by and belong to the blog’s author, Antonia Grant. This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy for more information.